Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach Recipe

There's something irresistible about a warm bowl of orecchiette with sausage and spinach. The chewy, ear-shaped pasta perfectly cradles the savory sausage, while tender spinach adds a pop of freshness to every bite. It's the ultimate comfort food, yet elegant enough to serve when hosting guests.

this Recipe

This recipe quickly became a favorite in my home after I experimented with a few variations. It's quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for weeknights when you need a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into why this dish will soon be your go-to dinner.

Why You'll Love This Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach

Get ready to discover your new favorite pasta recipe. This dish is as delightful to eat as it is simple to prepare.

First, it’s all about the balance of flavors. The combination of savory sausage, earthy spinach, and the delicate nuttiness of orecchiette creates a harmony that’s downright addictive. Add a hint of garlic and chili for warmth, and you'll savor every bite.

This recipe is also quick and easy. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can have dinner on the table in about 25 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight but your cravings are strong.

Another reason to love this dish? It’s wholesome and filling without being heavy. The spinach adds a dose of nutrients, while the sausage provides satisfying protein. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet balanced.

Lastly, it’s family-friendly and versatile. Picky eaters will love the mild flavors, and you can easily adapt the recipe to suit what’s in your fridge or pantry. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe comes from its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s everything you need to know to make the best orecchiette with sausage and spinach.

Orecchiette pasta is the star of the dish. Its unique shape is perfect for holding bits of sausage and sauce, ensuring each bite is loaded with flavor. If you can’t find orecchiette, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like shells or farfalle.

The sausage is key to infusing the dish with savory richness. Opt for chicken or beef sausage with mild spices for the best flavor. Make sure to remove the casings before cooking to crumble it easily.

Fresh spinach adds a lovely pop of color and a boost of nutrients. Baby spinach works best here as it wilts quickly, blending seamlessly into the dish. If you don’t have spinach, try substituting with kale or arugula.

Garlic and onions form the flavor base of the dish. Freshly minced garlic provides a fragrant kick, while the onions add natural sweetness.

For the sauce, olive oil and a touch of pasta water create a light yet luxurious coating for the pasta. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat, but you can adjust the amount to your taste.

Finally, don’t forget the grated Parmesan cheese for garnish. It adds the perfect finishing touch, bringing everything together with a salty, nutty bite.

How To Make This Orecchiette With Sausage And Spinach

Crafting this delicious pasta dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps to create a meal that’s sure to impress.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orecchiette according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining the rest.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it warm. Crumble your sausage into the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked through.

Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and toss in the diced onions. Sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, stirring until fragrant.

Next, return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Add the fresh spinach, cooking until just wilted. If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Add the cooked orecchiette to the skillet and toss everything together. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and serve warm.

This entire process takes about 25 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy evenings or last-minute dinner plans.

Storage Options

This pasta dish is just as delicious the next day, making it great for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the pasta cool completely before sealing the container to avoid condensation, which can make it soggy.

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil. Stir occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the pasta.

If you want to freeze this dish, portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few ideas to customize your orecchiette with sausage and spinach:

Swap out the spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a heartier texture. Both hold up well to the heat and add an earthy flavor to the dish.

If you’re in the mood for something spicy, use spicy sausage or add an extra pinch of chili flakes to the sauce.

For a creamy twist, stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese before adding the pasta. This creates a richer sauce that clings beautifully to the orecchiette.

Looking for a vegetarian option? Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas. Both add a satisfying, meaty texture without the meat.

Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add a burst of freshness. Sprinkle them on top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

This orecchiette with sausage and spinach is a dish that welcomes creativity. Try your own twists, and you might just discover a new family favorite!

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